Labour is not only agonising, it is also pretty exhausting; so it is important that you eat and drink something to avoid nausea, vomiting and dehydration.
 
Here's what you need to know about consuming food and drinks and what you should pack in your hospital bag:
 
Eat small snacks
Make sure you eat something small at least every hour to ensure you have enough energy for when the time comes to push.  Pop a few crackers into your hospital bag and make sure you drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration, which can lead to headaches.
 
Eat food with slow energy release
When your labour pains start, try to have a bowl of porridge or some brown rice which are good for slowly releasing energy, helping you say energised for longer.
 
Drinking  
Try to take a sip of something at least every 30 minutes. While you will be provided water from the midwives, for the mums who don’t like water or tap water would do well to pop a drink in their hospital bag. Ice is great if you don’t feel like you can put anything in your stomach.
 
Sports drinks
Isotonic drinks are ok to drink during labour and are great for giving your body energy when it is most needed.  
 
Drinks to avoid
Orange juice is not a great drink to consume as it can give you heartburn or make you feel a little nauseous. Also, avoid any fizzy carbonated drinks.
 
Coconut water
Coconut water is great for giving you energy, is full of electrolytes and doesn’t contain any fizz. It also tastes great too.
 
Ice pops
While they aren’t particularly convenient to carry around, an ice lolly is great for preventing dehydration and satisfying your hunger pangs.
 
However, it is important you talk to your doctor or midwife if you plan on eating anything as they might have alternative recommendations for you.

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